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Tannat Wines of Uruguay

The Robust Red with Old World and New World Charm

Jan 28, 2009 Brett McKenzie

Originally grown exclusively in southwest France, the robust, highly tannic Tannat has become the principal wine of Uruguay.

The History of Tannat

First produced in the Madiran region in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains in France, Tannat has a rich and storied history, having been used in the 17th and 18th centuries as payment for taxes. According to Tablas Creek, a Tannat-producing vineyard in Paso Robles, California, "In 1870, Basque immigrants brought the grape to Uruguay, where it adapted perfectly to the local soil and climate." Tannat continues to be grown in France, though its South American form has oenophiles the world over abuzz.

Uruguayan Tannat's Rising Popularity

When considering South American wines, Argentinan and Chilean reds are typically the first to come to mind. Yet while Tannat remains under-the-radar for many, it is beginning to see greater distribution in the United States and increased respect from oenophiles, lending to its steadily rising popularity. In October 2006, Time Magazine hailed Tannat as "marvelously complex," and in November 2008, the Los Angeles Times published a piece titled, "Oenophile's delight: no corking Uruguay's rising status as wine country." And The Wall Street Journal wine columnists Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher recommended Uruguayan wine in their 2009 "To-Do List for Wine."

In the U.S., wine vendors are beginning to offer Tannats from both France and Uruguay. Doug Jeffirs, Director of Wine Sales at Binny's Beverage Depot in Chicago says, "The South American Tannats we have [Monte de Luz and Los Vientos] are more vibrant, friendlier versions." Wine vendors not yet carrying Uruguayan Tannat tend to be pleasantly surprised and more than happy to accomodate customer requests for this little-known wine.

Characteristics of Uruguayan Tannat

While French Tannat is typically blended with Cabernet to lessen the high levels of tannins (in fact, the tannins lead the grape to be named "Tannat"), Uruguayan Tannat is less tannic and contains less alcohol, making for an all-around more enjoyable experience.

Uruguayan Tannats:

Are rich and robust in taste
Are powerful without overpowering
Are dark in color
Are lighter-bodied than their French predecessors
Often have notes of chocolate, black pepper, spice, and blackberry
Are high in Polyphenols, which are believed to reduce the risk of coronary disease

Pairing Uruguayan Tannat with Food

In Uruguay, meat is a dietary mainstay, and therefore Tannats from Uruguay are often a perfect partner for grilled meats, specifically steak, ribs, and lamb. Like its French cousin, Uruguayan Tannat offers a nice accompaniment to most soft cheeses. Duck and game meat are also frequently recommended as fine pairings for Uruguayan Tannat.

The copyright of the article Tannat Wines of Uruguay in New World Wine is owned by Brett McKenzie. Permission to republish Tannat Wines of Uruguay in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.